Updating your TV box for viewing 20 free digital channels Connecting a TV via Wi-Fi is a problem many users face after purchasing a device or changing broadcasting conditions. In 2026, the process became easier thanks to automatic over-the-air (OTA) updates, but some models require manual intervention. The main problems are unstable network connections, firmware download errors, or missing channels after an upgrade.
In this article we will analyze all current update methods — from automatic internet-based flashing to manual flashing from a flash drive. We'll pay special attention to setup. Wi-Fi connections, as this is often the cause of problems. You'll also learn how to check your set-top box's compatibility with the new channel package and what to do if the image is lagging or the sound is missing after the update.
Important: If your console was released before 2020, some features (such as support for HEVC/H.265 or DVB-T2) may be missing. In this case, a hardware upgrade or the purchase of an external receiver will be required.
1. Which TV set-top boxes support 20 channels and Wi-Fi?
Not all devices are capable of receiving 20 free channels in format DVB-T2 with encoding HEVCHere are the key requirements for the set-top box:
- 📺 Broadcast standard: support is required DVB-T2 (obsolete DVB-T will not fit).
- 🔄 Codecs: necessary H.265/HEVC for decoding HD content.
- 📶 Wi-Fi module: should work in the ranges
2.4 GHz(required) and5 GHz(optional). - 🔌 Ports: availability HDMI 2.0 to transmit a signal in resolution
1080por4K.
Popular models with Wi-Fi update support in 2026 include:
| Model | Support for 20 channels | Wi-Fi | Max. permission | Price (from) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi Box S 2 | ✅ (with firmware 2026+) | 2.4/5 GHz | 4K HDR | 4 500 ₽ |
| Dune HD Solo 4K | ✅ (auto-update) | 2.4 GHz | 4K | 6 200 ₽ |
| BBK SMP245HDT2 | ❌ (requires manual flashing) | 2.4 GHz | 1080p | 2 800 ₽ |
| Strong SRT 8505 | ✅ (with proprietary software) | 2.4/5 GHz | 4K | 7 900 ₽ |
Set-top boxes without Wi-Fi (for example, Supra SDT-94> or Selenga HD950D) can only be updated via USB or Ethernet adapter. If your model does not have a built-in Wi-Fi module, you will need to purchase an external USB adapter (we recommend TP-Link TL-WN725N or ASUS USB-AC51).
⚠️ Note: The list of supported channels may vary depending on the region. For example, in Moscow and St. Petersburg, all 20 channels are available, while in remote areas, only 10 are available. Check the current package on the website. RTRS or in the operator's personal account.
2. Preparing the console for the update
Before you start the update, please do the following: 5 essential stepsto avoid crashes:
Back up your settings|Check your Wi-Fi speed (minimum 10 Mbps)|Connect your set-top box to an uninterruptible power supply|Free up 500 MB of storage on your device|Disable VPN and proxy on your router-->
If the set-top box is connected to the TV via HDMI, make sure the cable supports version 2.0 or higher Otherwise, after the update, the sound may disappear or the image may lag. To check your Wi-Fi speed, use the app WiFi Analyzer (Android) or built-in test in the router (section Status → Wireless Network).
Pay special attention nutrition: If the set-top box is disconnected from the network during the update, this may lead to "briku"** (inability to turn on). Use UPS or plug the device directly into a wall outlet, avoiding extension cords.
What is a console "brick"?
A "brick" (from the English word "brick") is a condition in which a device stops responding to buttons and won't turn on. This most often occurs due to an interrupted firmware update. Functionality can only be restored by UART port or service center.
If you're updating your set-top box for the first time, make a note of your current channel settings. To do this:
- Go to
Menu → Settings → Channels → Export List. - Save the file to a USB drive or cloud storage (if supported).
3. Methods for updating firmware
Exists 3 main methods TV set-top box updates. The choice depends on the model and available features:
3.1. Automatic update via Wi-Fi (OTA)
The easiest way that works on most modern consoles (Xiaomi, Dune HD, Strong). Instructions:
- Connect the set-top box to Wi-Fi (in the menu
Settings → Network → Wireless connection). - Go to
Settings → System → Software Update → Check for updates. - If a new version is available, confirm the download and installation.
The process will take 5 to 20 minutes. The console will reboot automatically.
3.2. Manual update via USB
Suitable for older models (BBK, Supra, Selenga) or if automatic updates don't work. Here's what to do:
- Download the firmware from official website of the manufacturer (for example, for BBK SMP245HDT2 — from the website bbk.ru).
- Unzip the archive and copy the firmware file (usually with the extension
.binor.img) to the formatted oneFAT32flash drive. - Insert the flash drive into the console and go to
Settings → Software Update → Local Update.
⚠️ Attention: Never download firmware from third-party sources—this could result in the installation of malware or an incompatible version that will brick your device.
3.3. Updating via Ethernet (if Wi-Fi is unstable)
If the Wi-Fi signal is weak, connect the set-top box to the router via LAN cableThis will ensure stable speed and eliminate download interruptions. To do this:
- Connect the set-top box and the router with a patch cord (categories
Cat 5eor higher). - In the network settings, select
Wired connection (Ethernet). - Run the update check as in method 3.1.
If after the update the set-top box does not find channels, do the following: auto search on the menu Settings → Channels → Auto Tuning.
4. Setting up Wi-Fi for a stable update
A weak Wi-Fi signal is the main cause of update failures. To avoid problems, follow these recommendations:
- 📶 Router locationPlace it 1–1.5 m above the floor, in the center of the apartment. Avoid placing it near microwaves, cordless phones, and other sources of interference.
- 🔄 Wi-Fi channel: in the router settings (
192.168.1.1) select the least loaded channel in the range2.4 GHz(for example, 1, 6 or 11). - 🔒 Opening hours: set the standard
802.11n(or802.11ac, if the set-top box supports it5 GHz). Turn it off.802.11b- It slows down the network. - 📡 Signal amplifier: if the router is far away, use repeater (For example, TP-Link RE305) or Mesh system.
To check the connection quality:
- Open it on your console
Settings → Network → Connection Status. - Look at the indicators signal level (must be no lower than
-70 dBm) And speed (minimum5 Mbps).
If the speed is below normal:
- Switch the router to a channel
40 MHz(instead of20 MHz) in the settingsWireless mode. - Disable the feature
WMM (QoS)- it may conflict with streaming video.
5. Troubleshooting common errors after updating
Even after a successful update, problems may arise. Let's take a look. top 5 mistakes and ways to eliminate them:
| Error | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No image (black screen) | HDMI resolution incompatibility | Switch the TV to another one HDMI port or reset the set-top box to factory settings |
| No sound | Incorrect audio format (Dolby Digital) |
In the set-top box menu, select Settings → Sound → PCM |
| The video is lagging | Weak processor or network congestion | Disable background apps, reduce the bitrate in the channel settings |
| Settings are not saved | File system failure | Perform a reset via Settings → Backup & reset |
| No access to 20 channels | Outdated firmware or regional restrictions | Update the software manually or check the channel list on the website RTRS |
If the set-top box is after the update fixated on the logo, do it hard reset:
- Turn off the power.
- Press and hold the button
OKon the remote control (orReseton the body). - Connect the power by holding the button for 10-15 seconds.
If the problem persists, flash the console again using service software (usually it is available on the manufacturer's forums).
⚠️ Note: After resetting the settings, you'll need to reconfigure your channels and Wi-Fi connection. If you didn't write down your network settings, find them on the router sticker or in your provider account.
6. Optimizing the console after the update
To make the console work faster and more stable:
- 🧹 Clearing the cache: Once a month, delete temporary files in
Settings → Storage → Clear cache. - 🔄 Updating the channel list: Run the auto search once every 2-3 weeks, as operators may change broadcast frequencies.
- 🛡️ Disabling automatic updates: If the console is slow, disable background checking for updates in
Settings → System. - 📦 Using an external drive: to record the broadcast, connect a USB drive (format
NTFSorFAT32).
To improve image quality:
- Turn on
HDR(if the TV supports it) inSettings → Display. - Install manual color temperature mode (optimally:
6500K). - Turn it off
Noise reduction- it can blur the image.
If the console gets hot, provide it with ventilation: do not place it in closed cabinets and clean the ventilation openings from dust every 3 months.
7. Alternatives: What to do if your set-top box doesn't support 20 channels
If your model is not compatible with the new channel package, consider alternative options:
- 📱 Mobile applications: Tricolor TV, Wink or TV Online (require a stable internet connection).
- 💻 Smart TV: modern televisions (LG, Samsung, Sony Bravia) have a built-in tuner
DVB-T2. - 📡 External receiver: connect a USB tuner (for example, AVerMedia A338) to the computer.
- 🌍 IPTV: connect the service to the provider (for example, Rostelecom or MTS).
If you decide to buy a new console, pay attention to models with hybrid tuner (For example, World Vision Premium 4K), which support and DVB-T2, And IPTV.
The cost of a new set-top box with Wi-Fi and support for 20 channels in 2026 starts from 3 000 ₽. Budget models (BBK, Supra) will cost 2 500–4 000 ₽, and premium (Nvidia Shield, Apple TV 4K) — from 15 000 ₽.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to update the set-top box without the Internet?
Yes, if you download the firmware on another device and upload it via USB driveThe main thing is to choose the software version that is compatible with your model. Firmware files are usually available on manufacturers' websites or specialized forums (for example, 4PDA).
Why do some channels disappear after the update?
This may be due to:
- Changing broadcast frequencies in your region (automatic search required again).
- Incomplete firmware installation (try updating again).
- Regional restrictions (some channels may not be available in your city).
Check the current list of channels on the website RTRS or in the mobile app TV Guide.
How can I revert to the old firmware if the new one is performing worse?
To roll back you will need:
- Find an archived version of the software on the manufacturer's forum.
- Reset the set-top box to factory settings (
Settings → Reset). - Install old firmware via
USB(similar to manual update).
⚠️ Rolling back may result in loss of functionality (for example, support for new channels).
Do I need to pay for 20 channels after the update?
No, 20 free digital channels (First and second multiplexes) are broadcast freely. You only need to pay for:
- Advanced channel packages (eg Tricolor or NTV-Plus).
- IPTV from the provider (if you connect additional channels).
Is it possible to use a 4G modem instead of Wi-Fi for updating?
Yes, if your set-top box supports connection via USB modem (For example, Huawei E3372 or ZTE MF823). To do this:
- Insert the modem into the USB port of the set-top box.
- In the network settings, select
Mobile Internet. - Run a check for updates.
Please note that to download the firmware (usually 200–500 MB) will require sufficient traffic.